Travel Tips
Welcome to GlobalDealGuide's travel tips, your go-to resource for essential advice and insider tips to make your Himalayan and Tanzania adventure unforgettable. Learn from our years of experience guiding trekkers through Nepal's mountains and Tanzania Adventures. We provide essential advice and insider tips to make your Himalayan and Tanzania Adventures unforgettable.
Before You Go: Avoiding Common Travel Mistakes
Ensure a smooth journey by preparing for potential pitfalls. Here's how to avoid common mistakes before embarking on your adventure:
Health Preparation
Vaccinations: Recommended vaccinations for Nepal include Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid fever, Japanese encephalitis (seasonal), and routine vaccinations (MMR, DPT, flu). Consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Altitude Preparation: Consider spending time at elevation before your trip. Practice breathing exercises and stay hydrated.
Money Matters: Currency and Tipping
Understanding local currency and tipping etiquette is crucial for a stress-free experience:
Currency & ATMs: In Nepal, the Nepalese Rupee (NPR) is the local currency. ATMs are available in Kathmandu and major towns. Carry USD cash for remote areas. Credit cards are accepted in cities only.
Tipping Guidelines:
Guide: $8-12 per day, Porter: $5-8 per day, Driver: $3-5 per day, Tea house staff: 10% of bill
During Your Trek: Daily Routine and Photography Tips
Maximize your trekking experience with these daily routine guidelines and photography tips:
Daily Routine:
6:00 AM - Wake up, pack, 7:00 AM - Breakfast, 8:00 AM - Start trekking, 12:00 PM - Lunch break, 4:00 PM - Reach tea house, 7:00 PM - Dinner, rest
Photography Tips:
Golden Hour: Best light 1 hour after sunrise and before sunset, Battery Care: Keep batteries warm, carry spares, use power banks, Respect: Ask permission before photographing locals, Protection: Use dry bags and lens caps for dust/moisture
Staying Connected & Cultural Guidelines
Learn how to stay connected and respect local customs during your travels:
Internet Access: WiFi available at most tea houses ($3-5/day). Signal weakens with altitude. Mobile Networks: Ncell and NTC have coverage up to 5,000m. Buy SIM cards in Kathmandu. Emergency Communication: Satellite phones available for rent. GPS devices recommended.
Greetings & Behavior: Use "Namaste" with palms together. Remove shoes before entering homes/temples. Don't point with a single finger. Use your right hand for eating and greeting. Dress modestly, especially near religious sites. Walk clockwise around stupas and mani walls. Don't touch religious artifacts. Ask before photographing inside monasteries. Maintain quiet, respectful behavior. Small donations are appreciated. Accept tea when offered (it's polite). Don't waste food or water. Learn basic Nepali phrases. Respect local dress codes. Support local businesses when possible.
Emergency Preparedness
Be prepared for the unexpected with these essential emergency contacts and kit items:
Important Contacts (Nepal): Tourist Police: +977-1-4247041, Emergency (General): 100, Canadian Embassy: +977-1-4415193, Helicopter Rescue: +977-1-4442394
Emergency Kit Essentials: First aid supplies and medications, Emergency whistle and mirror, High-energy snacks and water purification, Emergency shelter (space blanket), Copies of important documents, Cash for emergency expenses
Ultimate Packing Checklist
Ensure you have everything you need with this comprehensive packing checklist:
Clothing: Base layers (merino wool), Insulation layers (down jacket), Waterproof jacket & pants, Trekking pants (2-3 pairs), Warm hat & sun hat, Insulated gloves, Warm socks (wool blend), Underwear (moisture-wicking)
Gear: Sleeping bag (-20°C rated), Trekking boots (broken in), Camp shoes (lightweight), Backpack (65-75L), Day pack (25-30L), Trekking poles, Headlamp + extra batteries, Sunglasses (UV protection)
Personal Items: Toiletries (biodegradable soap), Sunscreen (SPF 30+), Personal medications, Water bottles/hydration system, Water purification tablets, Quick-dry towel, Toilet paper & trowel, Personal snacks
Electronics: Camera with extra batteries, Power bank (high capacity), Phone with offline maps, Universal adapter, GPS device (optional), E-reader for rest days, Charging cables, Waterproof bag
Plan Your Adventure with GlobalDealGuide
Ready to explore the Himalayas or Tanzania? Let GlobalDealGuide help you plan an unforgettable journey. Contact us for personalized itineraries and expert advice.